Gates & Fencing

‘Fantastic synergies’ and a fresh driving influence mean that Fastline and Zaun are already experiencing benefits since the recent shareholding investment by Fastline and appointment of Fastline’s Mike Fellows to the Zaun board of directors.
Fellows and Zaun co-founder and owner Alastair Henman see this as only the start of the creation of a united powerhouse for the UK and international fencing market; to be achieved through close collaboration, combined sales efforts, joint...

Mul-T-Lock launches its new eCLIQ access control system for larger retailers, allowing organisations to remotely manage access permissions at the click of a button. The new and advanced eCLIQ technology allows organisations to both grant and remove access permissions remotely. This includes the ability to schedule individual access permissions for each key, as well as to provide time-limited access. If a key is lost, access can be also be revoked using the eCLIQ software, all managed from a clou...

Meesons announces that it has achieved certification to the internationally recognised ISO 9001:2015 standard. Achieving ISO 9001:2015 demonstrates Meesons’ commitment to customer service and quality in delivery, through an effective quality management system.
Meesons is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of anti-tailgating Security Portals and Speed Gates for use as physical entry barriers at building entrances. The range, which includes the UK’s first and only Security Portal...

Meesons announces that it is now an official sponsor of the UK Chapter of ASIS International, the world's largest membership organisation for security management professionals. As part of the sponsorship, Meesons, supplier of market Security Portals and Speed Gates, will have a presence at all ASIS quarterly seminars and events through 2019.
Alongside this, Meesons will be the event sponsor for the Winter Seminar, which is taking place at the Francis Crick Institute, the landmark biomedical res...

On the eve of its fifth ‘Gate Safety Week’ initiative, Tamworth-based trade association, the Door & Hardware Federation, (DHF) is calling for continued commitment to improving industry compliance with regards to automated gate safety. The organisation, founded in 1897, and renowned UK-wide as the independent voice of authority on automated gate safety, is reinforcing its on-going message that only by undertaking comprehensive training and adhering to technical specifications and...

Pioneering perimeter systems manufacturer Zaun has entered into a previously untapped market for the Wolverhampton-based business by introducing Palisade fencing to its extensive product portfolio. The facility in Wolverhampton now boasts the most modern Palisade rolling line in the UK, which runs 24 hours a day.
Zaun sales and marketing director Chris Plimley said: “This is a really big leap for us as we’ve not previously ventured into the Palisade market. We believe that adding th...

News

UK’s renowned manufacturer and supplier of electronic and electrified perimeter security systems, Harper Chalice has added to its dealer network with what it describes as ‘one of its most prestigious signing to date’.
Harper Chalice-Binns Fencing partnership
Harper Chalice has secured premier prison perimeter systems installer Binns Fencing as an authorised dealer of its high security defence and detection systems and complementary products.
The range is specifically designed to meet the growing demand for reliable protection of people, property and assets worldwide.
People, property and asset protection This is one of our most prestigious signing to date and is an indication of where our business is headed"
Harper Chalice MD Chris Hackett said: “This is one of our most prestigious signing to date and is an indication of where our business is headed. We have launched a major focus on prisons, where our PID systems are going from strength to strength, so Binns’ accreditations, relationships and expertise in this field will be critical.”
Chris adds, “They will also be dealers for our CPNI-accredited electric fencing and have just completed their first installation of such a system at a wind farm in Yorkshire.”
Perimeter security and detection systems
Harper Chalice has enjoyed rapid growth in the past three years since Hackett led the purchase of a majority shareholding from previous owner and founder Graham Harper which are held on behalf of all of the employees in an employee ownership trust.
The company grew 50% last year and has targeted a further 30-50% this year and is looking to continue to expand its dealer network. Binns signed up after a number of successful installations using Harper Chalice product.
One integrated security solution
MD Adam Binns said: “The partnership will enable us to offer prisons, utility sites and other high-security corporates, governments and organisations one integrated solution to manage security and safety risks effectively throughout their enterprises.”

Boon Edam Inc., global manufacturer of security entrances and architectural revolving doors, has announced the launch of an updated Turnlock full height turnstile that offers increased performance and an improved experience for users and installers alike. The update focuses on the design of the speed control mechanism and the overall construction of the turnstile’s top channel, providing improved rotation action and a significant reduction in overall weight of the top channel. In addition, the optional, emergency backup battery lasts twice as long as before.
Secure, authorised access in harsh, outdoor environments
Boon Edam’s Turnlock full height turnstiles are used around the world to allow only authorised personnel access into secure environments. Typically installed outdoors, their durable construction and efficient operation provide security access even in harsh weather conditions. They serve as visual deterrents against intrusion at perimeter fence lines of corporate headquarters, critical infrastructure locations, distribution centers, amusement parks and more.
Speed control mechanism ensures safe passage The speed control mechanism in a full height turnstile ensures a safe rotation speed during use by absorbing excessive force
The speed control mechanism in a full height turnstile ensures a safe rotation speed during use by dampening or absorbing excessive force when the rotors are pushed. The new and improved mechanism fulfills this purpose by providing a smooth rotation experience while also minimising the force needed for a user to push the rotor. The rotor also slows down gently as it completes rotation, stopping in place to await the next user. The operation is quiet, smooth and subtle, without vibration, creating an optimal user experience.
Easy installation and doubled battery backup
The updated Turnlock now features a narrower top channel that weighs 70 lbs. lighter than the previous version, making installation much easier for contractors. The top channel is now only 8 inches wide, compared to the 18-inch diameter used previously.
Finally, the optional battery backup has been completely redesigned and updated using the latest technologies. The battery backup keeps a turnstile working in case the power goes out and the coverage period has now doubled from two hours to four hours of protection. The size and weight of the battery system has also been cut in half, contributing to ease of installation.
Redesigned top channel and speed control feature The updated features are available on all 3-rotor, single and tandem Turnlock 100, 150 and 200 models
The updated features are available on all 3-rotor, single and tandem Turnlock 100, 150 and 200 models. Also, the redesigned top channel and speed control can be easily retrofitted into existing, installed Turnlock turnstiles. “We are always taking steps to improve our products, even a workhorse like the Turnlock, demonstrating our objective of ‘Basic Done Well’,” said Tom Schneider, Engineering Manager at Boon Edam Inc.
He further added, “The quiet action and smooth rotation work well indoors or outdoors and contractors will definitely notice a significantly lighter top channel that is much easier to lift and install in the field. We think our customers will appreciate these performance upgrades and we’ll continue to listen to their feedback.”
All Boon Edam full height turnstile models have been tested and certified to conform to UL Standard 294, a prevalent industry standard for ensuring the safe operation of turnstile equipment in the United States.

Senstar, a global provider of perimeter intrusion detection and video management solutions, is pleased to announce the FiberPatrol FP7000 fibre optic pipeline integrity monitoring system. The system enhances integrity management programs for both gas and liquid-carrying pipelines by providing early detection of leaks and third-party interference (TPI) and offers distinct performance advantages over other systems on the market. FiberPatrol FP7000 can also be used for fence-mounted intrusion detection.
“Senstar products have been protecting critical above-ground infrastructure for the oil and gas industry for over 35 years, so it was a logical progression to apply our technologies to underground infrastructure,” said Product Manager Stewart Dewar. “We can now offer complete and integrated end-to-end pipeline security solutions to customers in this market.”
Fast leak detection system
Combining patented Distributed Differential Temperature Sensing (DDTS) and Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technologies, the FiberPatrol FP7000 detects and locates small leaks faster and more accurately than traditional flow and pressure-monitoring solutions or other fibre-based solutions. In addition, TPI detection helps to avoid leaks in the first place by detecting digging or tampering before a damage can occur.
Through intense scientific research and development, our fibre optic experts have developed this leading-edge technology"FP7000’s DDTS technology can continuously monitor temperature (from a reference temperature) along the entire length of the sensor and can detect changes in temperature and temperature rate as low as 0.0005 οC and 0.001 οC/min, respectively. In addition, FP7000’s DAS technology detects minute acoustic signals emanating from a leak. The extreme sensitivity of DDTS and integration of both DDTS and DAS in one system enable the FP7000 to detect small leaks faster than any other leak detection system.
Fence-mounted intrusion detection
“Through intense scientific research and development, our fibre optic experts have developed this leading-edge technology for detecting pipeline leaks,” said VP of Engineering Shailesh Singh. “Our patented technology allows for detection of small liquid and gas leaks that would be undetectable with competing technologies, while simultaneously rejecting environmental factors caused by weather or nuisance sources.”
The FP7000 joins Senstar’s growing FiberPatrol family that includes fence-mounted intrusion detection, buried intrusion detection, TPI detection for pipelines and now leak detection for pipelines. The addition of leak detection to Senstar’s product portfolio of perimeter intrusion detection and video management solutions allows Senstar to provide end-to-end security of above and below-ground pipeline assets.

PureTech Systems announces its latest capability, which provides for automated dispatch of a security drone to an alarm location. The alarm can originate from sensor sources capable of providing a location including PureActiv geospatial video analytics, radar, acoustic buried/fence sensor, UGS, access control, contact alarm, and user input.
High resolution cameras, excellent stabilisation measures, lighter materials and better battery life have combined to make drones efficient surveillance platforms. PureTech System’s has leveraged these technology advancements along with its industry video analytics and flagship geospatial management system to provide automated security response that includes drone dispatch, flight path guidance to the alarm location, continuously updated drone location and camera Field-of-View on the GIS map, and live video from drone mounted cameras.
Dispatch-Drone-to-Alarm features
Automatic drone stand-off distance and altitude calculation for fixed camera payloads to ensure view of target, as well as, the ability to maintain target
Other key features of the Dispatch-Drone-to-Alarm include:
Takeoff / Return – Fully automated drone start, take off and return.
Flightpath Guidance – Automatic upload of waypoints to direct the drone to the event location. The integration also allows for flight plan changes and waypoint additions after initial dispatch.
Live Video – Live streaming video to the PureActiv geospatial video management system (VMS) during all stages of the mission. Full support of both visible and thermal camera feeds, including recording, playback and forensic review.
Target Detect & Monitor– Automatic drone stand-off distance and altitude calculation for fixed camera payloads to ensure view of target, as well as, the ability to maintain target in the camera view via drone heading control.
PTZ Control – if outfitted, remote PTZ control in hover mode.
Drone Position Tracking – Drone location tracking and route display on map-based VMS.
Drone Status Indication –Operator display of real-time drone status and health condition.
Security surveillance tool
“Recent technology advanced have made drones a very attractive security surveillance tool, providing an additional layer of automation, detection and response,” notes Eric Olson, PureTech Systems vice president of marketing.
we envision to be a robust technology roadmap, utilising PureTech Systems’ patents related to airborne operation and detection from moving platforms
“This integration, allowing for the automatic dispatch of a drone or UAV to a security event, is the first step in what we envision to be a robust technology roadmap, utilising PureTech Systems’ patents related to airborne operation and detection from moving platforms, our know-how in sensor integration, use of geospatial methods, deep learning and further evolution of drone technology to bring remote security and automation to the next level.”
Five-hour endurance
The first integration was performed with The Perimeter, a hybrid gas-electric multicopter drone from the company Skyfront. The Perimeter, which boasts a record-breaking five-hour endurance and 100+ mile range, will be featured with PureTech Systems’ dispatch-to-alarm capability at customer demonstrations taking place concurrent with this release.
“The combination of the Perimeter drone and PureActiv video management system is a cost-effective, scalable, and fundamentally better way to secure very large installations. Property owners can have eyes on the ground at the site of a breach, miles away, in less than five minutes. We look forward to demonstrating this solution to customers with PureTech Systems,” says Troy Mestler, CEO of Skyfront.

A 1,000-strong manufacturers’ organisation that promotes the value of British manufacturing as a differentiator is coming to Wolverhampton for its first sales and marketing workshop of the new autumn season.
Pioneering steel fencing systems manufacturer Zaun will host the Made in Britain workshop, focused on marketing, sales, exports and PR.
Delegates will hear about digital marketing for manufacturers and receive a marketing masterclass from Young’s Seafood’s marketing team.
British manufacturing industry
They will also hear from Zaun about its sales, marketing and export journey and enjoy a tour around Zaun’s factory.
Made in Britain workshops highlight the community spirit of the British manufacturing industry and four events in the spring brought together members to share stories, ideas and advice.
Previous events have taken place at pioneering recycler Axion in Manchester, iconic British car maker Vauxhall, Knowsley cable manufacturer Tratos and global coffee machine manufacturer Fracino in Birmingham.
All the greatest British manufacturers have a story to tell and the workshops offer them a chance to sell those stories to each other"
Made in Britain workshop
Made in Britain chief executive John Pearce says: “All the greatest British manufacturers have a story to tell and the workshops offer them a chance to sell those stories to each other. British SME manufacturers need each other more than ever to increase the strength of the British-made supply chain.”
“Typically, at each workshop two or three new trading relationships are born – as we’re all united in the use of the official collective mark to point to the quality, innovation and excellence of British manufacturing.”
Proactive at trading
Zaun marketing manager Steve Roberts said: "As a company we are very proactive at trading on our Britishness throughout our business. We have seen major success through this route, especially in the Middle East and following our work on the London 2012 Olympics.”
After the Zaun event, the final two workshops of the year will be at ethical luxury brand The Soap Co. in London on 10 October then the ESSE foundry in Barnoldswick, Lancashire, on 14 November. Made in Britain events are for members across all their 50 product sectors.

Hadley Group, a global manufacturer of cold rollformed sections and profiles, will be showcasing their innovative range of fully engineered fencing solutions at FENCEX 2018. Find them at Stand 2 on Wednesday 17th October at the NEAC at Stoneleigh Exhibition Park in Warwickshire.
Hadley Group’s cold rolled steel fencing systems provide an optimum strength-to-weight ratio ensuring maximum durability, easier handling and faster installation. Designed and manufactured by the market-leading, globally active in-house cold rollform profile design team, Hadley Group’s alternative fencing solutions will be showcased at the exhibition in October.
Robust perimeter fencing solution
Hadley Group’s versatile railing system, UltraBar, will also be presented at FENCEX, a system that has been designed for easy erection with pre-assembled panels that simply bolt into place
On display will be the manufacturers’ unique UltraFence system, the first complete cold rolled engineered palisade fencing system where every component has been specifically designed to optimise strength-to-weight ratio. Lighter, stronger and more economical than industry alternatives, the product is also generally quicker to install. The system is made up of three main components; UltraPost, UltraRail and UltraPale to ensure an attractive, robust perimeter fencing solution.
Hadley Group’s versatile railing system, UltraBar, will also be presented at FENCEX, a system that has been designed for easy erection with pre-assembled panels that simply bolt into place. Featuring Hadley Group’s patented raking joint system, UltraBar gives the installer the angle desired instantly and effortlessly. Aesthetically pleasing, traditionally styled and cost effective, the railings are ideal for parks and outdoor recreational facilities.
British standards compliant fencing systems
Finally, Hadley Group will also be showcasing its UltraSecure system. The revolutionary fencing system features steel slats fixed between each pale to offer heightened levels of defence, providing an extremely strong and secure perimeter. The security system is available in two forms; solid for applications requiring total privacy, or perforated where good surveillance of the premises is required.
All of Hadley Group’s fencing systems are worldwide patent protected and compliant with British Standards.
The only UK exhibition dedicated to perimeter security, fencing and access control, FENCEX is staged once every two years attracting trade delegates from both Europe and all over the UK
Adam Lyness, Sales Manager at Hadley Group will be on the stand to offer practical insight and product advice throughout the day. Adam said: “FENCEX is a unique exhibition where we can really demonstrate our wide range of fencing systems. We can provide fencing solutions for any environment, whether that is for a playground or properties that need high security. With over 50 years of experience, innovation and expertise, we are looking forward to helping visitors to learn more about us and what Hadley Group’s fencing solutions can do for them.”
Event dedicated to perimeter security
The only UK exhibition dedicated to perimeter security, fencing and access control, FENCEX is staged once every two years attracting trade delegates from both Europe and all over the UK. A must-attend event for contractors, specifiers, security procurement experts, local authority officers, architects, leisure facility managers, highway specialists and statutory bodies, the exhibition will present all of the latest products and services in the field.

Case studies

Season-ticket holders at Belgian football club RWD Molenbeek will soon find it easier to enter the stands at their stadium, thanks to facial recognition technology that is set to be introduced at the turnstiles.
Although the project is still in the test phase, fans ordering their season tickets on-line can already upload an ID photo. This photo will be compared in real time with images taken by two cameras installed in the season-ticket holders’ queue at the stadium entrance, allowing supporters to enter much faster. An automatic gate will be installed in early 2019.
Data processing facility
Spectators who have forgotten their paper ticket can still enter the stadium with no problem. Those who haven't uploaded a photo, or who have borrowed an entry ticket, will still have to pass through the conventional gates and show their ticket at the turnstiles. The system was installed by Zetes using Panasonic facial recognition technology.
The detection system, with its fast and reliable data processing facility, means we can install a system to speed up entry checks to the stadium"
The facial recognition software applies only to the access checks, as a further benefit for season-ticket holders. Thierry Dailly, chairman of RWDM, explains: “The detection system, with its fast and reliable data processing facility, means we can install a system to speed up entry checks to the stadium.”
Alain Wirtz, CEO of Zetes, adds: “This project is a perfect example of how we can benefit from the innovative capabilities provided by the Panasonic group, owner of Zetes. Zetes specialises in this identification technology, which has many different applications. We hope this project can act as a shop window for our products.” The pilot project will run for about a year.
Guaranteeing confidentiality
Supporters’ photos are scanned and stored on an RWDM server, which is not connected to the Internet or to any other system. Only RWDM-authorised personnel have access to the data. Data collected by the entrance gate cameras is not recorded, guaranteeing confidentiality for the supporters.
At this stage, the system is still in the test phase, and the facial recognition facility is not yet fully operational. The installation of the automatic gate at the beginning of 2019 will complete the planned programme. 2017 April, Panasonic acquired a majority shareholding in Zetes and 2017 July completed the acquisition of 100% shares of Zetes. Zetes was founded in 1984, and employs 1100 employees in 21 countries in EMEA in 2016. Its headquarters is in Brussels.

Boon Edam Inc., a provider of security entrances and architectural revolving doors, announces that RagingWire Data Centers has installed Boon Edam’s Tourlock 180+90 security revolving doors as part of its integrated access systems that protect their data centers in Ashburn, Va. and Sacramento, Calif.
Founded in 2000, RagingWire was one of the first companies that helped to build the multi-billion dollar global data center colocation industry. Now, RagingWire is the North American data center platform within the portfolio of NTT Communications, which operates 140 data centers in 20 countries worldwide, making RagingWire one of the largest and most financially solid data center companies in the world.
Demanding hyperscale cloud
RagingWire is recognised as an industry leader in data center security and overall customer experience"
RagingWire uses Tourlock security revolving doors at its Ashburn VA3 Data Center, which features 245,000 square feet of space and 16 megawatts of critical power, and its Sacramento CA3 Data Center, which is a 180,000 square foot facility with 14 megawatts of critical power. VA3 and CA3 are part of RagingWire’s portfolio of data centers in Ashburn, Northern California and Dallas, Texas.
“As the colocation data center of choice for some of the most demanding hyperscale cloud and enterprise companies, RagingWire is recognised as an industry leader in data center security and overall customer experience,” said Mark Borto, CEO of Boon Edam Inc. “We are proud to provide an important part of RagingWire’s sophisticated, multi-layer, integrated security system.”
Provide efficient passage
Boon Edam’s security revolving doors provide efficient passage for hundreds of people daily at RagingWire’s data centers. The doors prevent piggybacking and tailgating during both entry and exit by using a combination of sensors to recognise shapes, size and volume in three dimensions, and then stopping the door when a violation occurs.
Our customers expect our security entrances and anti-tailgating technologies to be extremely fast and accurate"The state-of-the-art system also generates an accurate picture of exactly who is in the building at all times. “Our customers expect our security entrances and anti-tailgating technologies to be extremely fast and accurate,” said Eddie Ankers, Director of Corporate Security at RagingWire.
Analyse suspicious behavior
“By adding these doors to our defense-in-depth security strategy, we are providing the best possible protection system for our customers’ mission critical equipment.”
In addition to Boon Edam’s Tourlock security revolving doors, RagingWire’s layered security approach features highly trained, 24x7 security staff, biometric scanners, badge readers, intelligent high-definition video cameras that analyse suspicious behavior, anti-tailgate mantraps, a building-within-a-building design, anti-climb perimeter fencing, concrete bollards in front of building entryways, and an anti-ram security gate.

People and vehicle access control specialist Nortech has recently seen St James’ Market in central London update and improve access to its site using Nedap’s uPASS Target system. Supplied by Nortech, Nedap’s uPASS Target was installed by leading supplier of integrated security systems Total Support Services (Security) Ltd, which was selected to supply the robust solution for long-range identification to its recently installed security gates at the market.
Total Support Services (Security) Ltd, TSS, which designs and engineers its own brand of security products and equipment, was able to use its 26 years of experience in specialised security products and services to provide the ideal security and access system that fitted the client’s needs. TSS selected the uPASS Target as it is easy to integrate with any existing access control system so users don’t need to get out of their vehicles to get into the development.
Reliable and easy to install system
Guy Bulmer, Director at Total Security Services commented, “We use Nortech as they are our ‘go-to’ provider for access control and vehicle identification systems. We have had a great relationship with them for nearly 20 years, ever since we were asked to install a Norpass system for some clients, and it just went from there.”
The uPASS Target is ideal both for access control to gated sites and for close monitoring of traffic flow activities at industrial sites and logistic depots
He continued, “We certainly recommend Nortech products to others and we are very happy with the end result achieved for the client. We have our core products that we use because they are easy to install and they just work. Any issues are dealt with in a helpful and friendly way by the tech guys and we always get a reliable system at the end of it.”
Ideal for access control and monitoring activities
The uPASS Target is a robust solution for long-range identification of vehicles, people and rolling stock. It is ideal both for access control to gated sites and for close monitoring of traffic flow activities at industrial sites and logistic depots. Its plug-and-play features enable it to be installed in just a few simple steps, and its variety of industry-standard communication interfaces support seamless integration into any existing or new third-party systems for access control, logistic operations, security and parking.
Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind.

A landmark mixed-use development in Nigeria has been secured by the latest British perimeter technology.
Crash-tested bi-folding speed gates with inlaid SR security-rated mesh panels have been installed at Nestoil Towers on Victoria island, Lagos, along with crash-tested bollards and blockers.
Cova Security Gates from Crawley – creators of the crash-tested speed gate – won the contract to supply and install from Nigerian construction company Julius Berger.
Nestoil Towers is a 15-storey mixed-use development consisting of 7,500 sq m of office space, 3,500 sq m of residential space
High performance glass
The prestigious Nestoil Towers is a 15-storey mixed-use development consisting of 7,500 sq m of office space, 3,500 sq m of residential space, a multi-storey parking facility as well as a recreational facility – and houses Julius Berger’s new corporate head office.
The building form was created using gentle curved surfaces of high performance glass with horizontal tubular details which accentuate the sweeping effect of the curved façade. The arced curtain walls are further defined by a surround of solid white metal panels to complete the contemporary composition of this building.
Cova were tasked to provide secure vehicle and pedestrian access and to protect access from the gatehouse for staff entrances and exits at different areas and around the main building.
Security of the gates
Cova supplied five crash-tested trackless bi-folding speed gates, one standard bi-folding gate, five rising arm barriers, four crash-rated bollards, a crash-tested shallow depth road blocker, a full-height double turnstile and a push button access control system that controlled the entire turnkey project.
The gates were clad with steel fencing manufacturer Zaun’s SR2-rated Super10 steel mesh to add to the security of the gates.
Cova’s design team manufactured each product bespoke to the client’s specific requirements for the project
Cova’s design team manufactured each product bespoke to the client’s specific requirements for the project, because of the weight and material of the mesh, to ensure PAS68 test standards were fully met and foundation requirements, speed of opening and closing and power control were all as specified.
Implement protection
All gates and turnstiles were finished in ‘Signal White’ to blend in with the design of the tower and the fence line.
Cova filled three 40ft containers for shipping to Nigeria with all products tested prior to leaving the factory as part of its ISO9001 process and by Julius Berger-appointed auditors.
Installation was arduous and fraught with difficulties, but once completed, a Cova engineer provided full training to Nestoil Towers security team on how to operate the gates, blockers, barriers and turnstile on a daily basis so that they could correctly implement protection in the event of a terrorist vehicle attack.

When Crafthouse USA CEO and founder Evan Matz moved from Florida to Virginia several years ago, he realized that the sunny, tropical weather had not followed him there. In the winter, at some of his first restaurants, he noticed an issue with the entry. At one property, as customers entered through a pair of swinging doors, the cold winter air rushed inside and everyone in the dining room wanted to be far away from the entrance. At another location, he had a vestibule with two swinging doors; this better controlled the influx of cold air but took up a lot of expensive, interior space. Matz decided back then that he needed a different entrance solution for his restaurants – a revolving door.
The revolving door not only blocks out the elements but creates a smooth entrance for customers as opposed to swing doors that can jam
BoonAssist TQ manual
Matz has since launched a new, upscale casual restaurant concept called Crafthouse, and opened three locations in Northern Virginia. In his search for revolving doors, Matz’s contractor, St. Clair Construction of Louisville, KY, recommended Boon Edam Inc., a global leader in architectural revolving doors and security entrances. Matz installed their BoonAssist TQ manual revolving door to protect his business and customers from the elements as they enjoyed the local cuisine and colour of Northern Virginia.
“Snow and cold air could blow in and disturb the customers,” said Matz. “The revolving door not only blocks out the elements but creates a smooth entrance for customers as opposed to swing doors that can jam. I can also fit more tables with the space savings and that brings in a tangible ROI.”
About Crafthouse
The three Crafthouse locations can be found in Reston, Fairfax and Arlington. A full-service, casual restaurant, Crafthouse serves upscale Craft Fare and offers over 300 craft beers, cider, wine, bourbon, whiskey and scotch options representing Virginia and DC, with staff that can guide customers through every selection. Crafthouse brings its local colour to every aspect of the meal by hosting music from local artists, karaoke nights and trivia contests.
The BoonAssist TQM has a “push and go” power assist drive, automatic positioning of the door wings, and speed control to prevent excessive rotation speeds
BoonAssist TQ manual features
Matz has been extremely pleased with the support and service he has received from Boon Edam. “When we call Boon Edam to assist, someone is out here the same day. The timing, professionalism and assistance from Boon Edam helps to keep our restaurant open and doesn’t hinder our business one bit.”
The BoonAssist TQ manual revolving door from Boon Edam is a metal-framed door with glass sidewalls and door wings. The BoonAssist TQ is remarkable for its three distinct features: a “push and go” power assist drive that reduces user effort by up to 50%, automatic positioning of the door wings at the end posts upon completion of rotation for maximum ease of use, and speed control that prevents excessive rotation speeds and therefore allows for safe operation.
Energy saving
In addition, the BoonAssist TQ creates energy savings for Crafthouse and all users by minimizing air infiltration, especially during heavy use – which is the opposite effect of swinging doors. Crafthouse operates BoonAssist TQ doors at all three of their locations.
“It’s a gorgeous door, and we’ve been thrilled with its performance and Boon Edam’s support. I’m planning to open many more locations and will continue to use this door,” concludes Matz.

ProdataKey (PDK), an innovator of cloud-based networked and wireless access control products and services, and Dwelo LLC, a provider of smart-home solutions purpose-built for apartment owners, managers and residents, has announced a partnership that is seamlessly integrating PDK’s cloud access control technology into the Dwelo smart apartment platform.
Dwelo’s web and mobile software, which currently offers apartment dwellers the ability to control smart devices such as light switches, thermostats and door deadbolts for their individual units, has added features to manage access to common areas of their building or community, such as entry gates, clubhouse, gym and laundry facilities.
These spaces can now be secured by PDK’s cloud access control solution, pdk.io, providing apartment property managers and owners with valuable operational efficiencies. The administrative software interface, not visible to residents, enables management to easily establish and enforce authorised hours of use for common facilities.
An audit trail reports all traffic into the property, including any one-time credentials issued by residents, which can be used to assist in investigations in cases of theft or vandalism. When residents move out, their access to unit, common, and perimeter access is immediately deactivated, eliminating the risks that accompany traditional keys that would otherwise remain in circulation.
The system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue
Scalable and affordable security solutions
Beyond operational efficiencies, residents can unlock perimeter and common doors or gates using the same mobile app they use to control their apartments. In addition, they have the ability to use their phones or computers to generate temporary, one-time credentials that allow visitors, delivery and service people to gain access as needed. These features add to the conveniences afforded to residents living in Dwelo-enabled smart apartments.
Both Dwelo and PDK have built successful businesses by leveraging the power of cloud technology to create scalable, affordable solutions that offer unprecedented ease of installation for contractors and simple usability for customers.
With their combined areas of expertise in home automation and security, together they see an opportunity to serve a large and generally neglected market sector – apartment renters who desire the same smart home technological conveniences as today’s home owners and seek out communities that offer those smart home solutions.
The Dwelo/PDK solution is available for both new construction and retrofits. After an initial per-unit installation charge, the system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue.
Enhanced apartment living
“Dwelo is thrilled to be partnering with such an innovative company as PDK. PDK is a technology leader in the electronic access control space, and Dwelo and its customers are already benefitting from their forward-thinking approach to access."
Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector"
"The consolidation of smart home control and perimeter and common area access control, in one platform, is a powerful marriage for multifamily property owners. We look forward, with PDK, to crafting more solutions that address the specific needs of these customers,” says Mike Rovito, CEO of Dwelo, LLC.
“PDKs solution has been embraced by customers in the commercial sector for its simple ease of use and platform flexibility. Our wireless and PoE options allow for cost-effective takeover of legacy equipment, while supporting new construction projects with all the benefits derived from leveraging the network."
"Our mantra, simplicity without compromise, dovetails perfectly with Dwelo’s corporate mission to enhance apartment living through easily accessible IoT technology. Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector,” says Evan Tree, CEO of ProdataKey.